Understanding how fat cells grow and their relationship with blood vessel cells
Official title: Defining the role of an endothelial-adipocyte precursor axis in adipocyte hyperplasia
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11047551 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how sex hormones affect the growth of fat cells and how certain cells in our blood vessels help produce estrogen, which plays a role in fat storage, so both men and women can learn more about how their bodies handle weight and health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | March 22, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $506,520 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK132563-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047551 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults experiencing obesity or related metabolic conditions, particularly those with varying hormonal profiles.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the growth of fat cells, particularly focusing on how sex hormones influence this process. It examines the role of endothelial cells, which line blood vessels, in producing estrogen that affects fat cell development. By studying both male and female models, the research aims to uncover the differences in fat accumulation and distribution that contribute to obesity-related diseases. Patients may benefit from insights into how hormonal changes impact fat storage and metabolic health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating obesity-related metabolic diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the hormonal regulation of fat cell growth, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
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Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rodeheffer, Matthew S — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Rodeheffer, Matthew S
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.